MORE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

When your running backs are larger than the opposing defensive line, chances are you’re about to have a big night.

Norwalk (4-0) ran over and around Whittier (2-2) on Friday night in scoring six rushing touchdowns and dominating the line of scrimmage for a 45-0 win at California High. Rashaad Penny scored four times for the Lancers and Matthew Ortega added two more to quickly put the game out of reach.

“That’s what we do,” Norwalk head coach Sean Ireland said. “I knew we would be strong up front and we’re establishing that.”

The double-wing offense worked to perfection for the Lancers, who lined up several backs on each play. That caused confusion and misdirection that allowed the sizeable offensive line to create space at the line of scrimmage.

Penny rushed 13 times for 131 yards and four touchdowns. He broke three tackles to score from nine yards out in the first quarter, then made an impressive, 24-yard dash to the end zone just before the half.

Ortega ran only eight times for 130 yards and his two scores. His first touchdown came from 6 yards early in the second quarter. The second, which essentially sealed the game at 35-0 in the third quarter, began with a cutback to the sideline for a 53-yard score.

Norwalk looked strong from all angles. Its defense recovered two Whittier fumbles, forced an interception and knocked the starting quarterback out of the game.

Norwalk was leading 14-0 late in the first quarter when linebacker Jose Abrina came unblocked off the end and slammed into Whittier quarterback Jared Reza, who left the field nursing his throwing arm. Anthony Figueroa stepped in, but went 5 for 11 for 67 yards and the interception.

Penny clearly shone brightest under the Cal High lights. The 6-foot-1 running back showed the impressive speed and strength that reportedly has Pac-12 schools on high alert.

“He’s just an athlete,” said Ireland, who knew during passing league that Penny would draw attention this season. “Some of the things he was doing, I didn’t see anybody else doing all summer.”

Norwalk next will face Cerritos (1-2). Whittier will play Schurr (0-3).